Local resident Timothy Kevin Howell and three others charged with operating an Rose Hill massage parlor as a front for prostitution pleaded not guilty at King County Superior Court Oct. 22.

Howell, 35, allegedly managed the Red Rose Hot Stone Spa on Northeast 85th Street for a Bothell resident, Sheung Tam, who is the owner of the business.

The four were also linked to the Red Dragon Spa in Renton. Both businesses are now closed.

Felony charges of promoting prostitution were filed Oct. 9 after a nine-month investigation at both locations by detectives from the King County Sheriff’s Office. Prosecutors also accuse two Bellevue women – Wei Qing Tong, 46, and 39-year-old Chinese national Yu Xian Huang – of supporting Tam and Howell operate the brothels. Investigators believe the women also worked as prostitutes, but they are not charged with that crime, a misdemeanor.

The four are expected to next appear in court Nov. 5.

Kendall Watson can be reached at 425-822-9166, ext. 5052 or

kwatson@kirklandreporter.com.